Hustlers come in all shapes and sizes, from single mothers, to revolutionary activists with day jobs. What connects them is the agency to move, the motivation to succeed despite difficult circumstances, and a drive to defy the obstacles that block the path to greatness. Move over “Eye of the Tiger”, these huslin’ ass tracks are guaranteed to stimulate yo lazy behind into making yo mama proud!

“Juicy” Notorious B.I.G.

The quintessential rags-to-riches rhyme by one of the greatest rappers of all time. Everyone can relate to Biggie’s upbeat anthem for movin’ on up, even if you didn’t eat sardines for dinner. The Mtume sample knocks your woofers and tweeters, while Biggie’s throaty inspirational rhymes remind even the hardest hustler to stop and smell the daisies. And if you don’t know, now you know!

“The New Workout Plan” Kanye West

Guaranteed to help the ladies “pull a rapper, NBA player, or at least a dude with a car!” Pop this in while doing your reps for an instant boost to remedy that lazy American metabolism. While you’re doing sit-ups remember all the ex-boyfriends that left you for a skinny bitch. And fellas, you no longer have to be fat and wack! This provides a long-awaited substitute for ‘Sweatin’ to the Oldies.’ Thanks Kanye!

“Dirt Off Your Shoulder” Jay-Z

This is the anthem for those of us who’ve been severely hated on. Just remember: Even Jesus Christ had haters trying to hold up his hustle, so let them do them, while you do you. Take it from President Carter: “Get…that…dirt of your shoulder!”

“Be Healthy” by Dead Prez

Curry falafel and barbeque tofu never sounded so good until M-1 and Stic Man pledged their undying devotion to being healthy. Put down them candy bars and cigarettes because you know what they say: “You are what you eat,” little piggies. It also goes into the next track, “Discipline,” which is the ultimate mantra to keep it McDonald’s-free.

“Getting’ It” Too $hort

Too $hort is the man to go to if you want to know what it takes to stay in the game for over 25 years. After more than six back-to-back platinum and gold albums off the independent-rap hustle, this self-made millionaire brings pimping (the system) to a whole new level. Kids, do as he does and not as he says, BIATCH!!!!

CONTACT DE LEON AT KRISHDEL@SFSU.EDU